A Hodgepodge of Blogs

A full Indian dinner at Anarkali; or, in my brother's words, "Holy Rhea!"

The amazing work of Mike at Studio City Tattoo.

Well, friends, I still have no complaints about living in the city. Despite the hustle and bustle of being in the heart of Los Angeles and falling asleep to the sound of my downstairs neighbor getting her ass slapped, I really do love it here. There's nothing that compares to living close to family and friends, and I constantly am befuddled by how quickly time flies when you're having fun. This week's mish mosh of spots is listed in the order of which they were visited:

Studio City Tattoo 11032 Ventura Blvd., Studio City

A friend recommended the artist, Mike, to me. I went with said friend to get her tattoo and was rather impressed with Mike's efficient and smooth work. Before I left the shop, I chatted with Mike and showed him some sketches of what I wanted. He asked me to email the sketches and to give him a few days to create a design around a previously existing tattoo. Four days, 30 minutes, and a glass of wine later, I was thrilled with the outcome. Mike's intricate work on my bony right foot was more than I could have asked for. Tattoos come with a hefty price tag (the shop's minimum is $80), which is well worth the investment for a piece of art that will last you forever. I think I'm done with my tattoo frenzy (are you happy, dad?), although I'd go back to see Mike if I ever got the urge to be inked.

BLD 7450 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles

Thank you, LA Restaurant Week! For a $26 prix fixe plus an $18 wine pairing, my friend, Mara, and I got to experience one of LA's most talked about eateries. We each got an appetizer (bacon-wrapped figs), entree (butternut squash lasagna), and dessert (bread pudding). Clearly, the foods in parentheses were my selections for the evening. I'm a firm believer that a meal is well worth the splurge if it pleasantly haunts your palate for weeks to come. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, before wishing a hearty Shabbat Shalom to all those nice Jews we saw on the walk to the Village Idiot.

Oak Fire Grill (formerly Stone Fire Grill) 829 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood

For some reason, this sports bar/pizzeria has turned into my new family dinner spot. The thin crust pizzas are delectable and delicious and the Happy Hour deals can't be beat. The other night I went to Oak Fire with my girl, Talia, newly-engaged and co-creator of the Three Day Rule. She asked me to accompany her to Oak Fire (the night the Yankees won the World Series oh heeeeeeeeeeeeeey!) to take some pictures of guys on the town. To our surprise, we were turned down by bar fly douchebags who wouldn't let us snap even one shot. They were rude, too! Um, are you kidding me?? I'd be flattered if some cute dudes approached me for their website which highlights eligible young singles on the town! Whatevs. Short and sweet: go to Oak Fire for the Happy Hour and the food, not for the dudes. Ew.

I do hope to see all you 21+ singles at the Three Day Rule's next mixer at Bar Lubitsch on Wednesday, November 18, from 8-10pm. I mean, who isn't excited to meet Mr. or Mrs. Right [Now]??

Rush Street 9546 Washington Blvd., Culver City

My good friend, Jess, recommended this place for dinner and a drink the other night. We met up Thursday night after work for a night of fantastic company, awesome food, and great service. The place didn't fill up until around 7:30, making it easy for us to snag a table without a reservation. The turkey burger was moist, the sweet potato fries were crisp, the mac 'n' cheese was garlicky and amazing, and the first round of drinks was free. This is a great spot for meeting friends or a date. There's a stripper pole (say whaaaa?!) on the second floor behind the bar and a patio open for dining, drinking, and smoking (ick). Park in the lot off Cardiff; it's free for the first two hours and $1 every hour after that.

Prix 8776 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood

I've raved about Roger before and I'll rave about him again. I'm now a return customer and I've gone to Roger for two of my nine piercings. He's been in the business for 11 years and has pricked the best of the best, including the Osbourne family, P. Diddy/Puff Daddy/Sean "Puffy" Combs, and LaToya Jackson. This salon is clean and thorough with a friendly and fun staff. No doubt you should call and ask for Roger for your next piercing. My N.T. and I have a love-love relationship with him. Gotta love the Rog.

Anarkali 7013 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles

Still my favorite Indian restaurant in L.A. Last night I went with my girl, E, and we indulged to the point of physical pain (I still believe there's a little Indian man Bollywood dancing inside my tummy). The food never disappoints and their Chicken Tikka Masala can't be beat. They started us off with free Samosas and topped us off with Rice Pudding, on the house. Be sure to print the $10, dine-in only coupon before you go, and they might even give you another one at the end of the meal, like they did for each of us last night. Park at a meter and save yourself the cost of valet.

Download this: "Memories" by David Guetta. It's one of those songs you can relate to.

The Hip Chick Goes Vegan

No, not completely, although I would if all vegan food was a delicious as the food at Vegan Glory. Located at the northeast corner of Beverly and Orlando, this lil' place sits right on the edge of a strip mall, which is only really noticed by the locals. I pass by this place all the time and have only heard great things about it from my trainer and one of my best friends, who is my N.T. the person who connected me to said trainer. Everything at Vegan Glory is great. For $10 you can get an entree and brown rice that will last you through that meal and most likely the next two. There's a minimum $15 delivery charge, so feel free to order generously and stock up. I'm a huge fan of the Yellow Curry with soy chicken, and I'm pretty sure my brother is also hooked, since he polished off my leftovers that same night. The crispy tacos with soy chicken are also delicious -- they taste like Taco Bell crispy tacos, minus the orange grease. Parking is decent in the lot. It's valet, although the valet guys are cool if you just go to pick up. Even if you're a die-hard meat eater, you'd be shocked at just how tasty the soy meat is at Vegan Glory. Go ahead...try it. I dare you.

Once again, I'm gonna blog about my trainer. No, not because I want to, but because she won't get off my ass until I do. Just kidding!! It is such a pleasure to blog about Tracie, a woman who continues to change me for the better both inside and out. I kept telling myself, "Okay, this is the last time I'm going to hire her," and then it comes to the end of the series and my gut (no pun intended) always tells me to bring her on again. I am getting so many positive reactions from friends and family and I'm gaining such confidence with the way I view myself. Even though I will never (and would never want to) be rail thin, fitting comfortably into a size 6 is something I never thought possible after gaining that "freshman 15" and studying abroad 20. Yes, kids, at my worst, I was pushin' a size 12 and was at least 15-20 lbs. heavier than I am now. And, as I say to my students, "I only tell true stories" (thanks, Susie!). This not to knock all the size 12's of the world, since we women come in all different shapes and sizes. Although, for my body, a size 12 just ain't cuttin' it.

Just when I think my workouts can't get any harder, Tracie catches me off guard and adds weights to the body bar I'm forced to hold during sit ups. She has given me the motivation to wake my ass up at 6:00 am (even the sun is still asleep!) and go running, and those late nights at Astro Burger are long behind me. Do you want to know the best part of training with Tracie? I've developed a friendship that far surpasses our triweekly hour-and-fifteen-minute sessions. She is one of the most real people I know, nailing my problems on the head and throwing reality in my face. If I get down on myself or have a bad day, she wakes me up and tells me what I can do to change my attitude. She reinforces positivity and helps me to fight off those demons that shade my path to self-realization and acceptance. Bottom line: she's an amazing trainer and an even more amazing person. And I couldn't ask for anything more. If you're interested in hooking up with Tracie Hendricks, please contact me directly. You can also find her teaching multiple classes at Equinox in Woodland Hills and West Hollywood.

Download this: "When Love Takes Over - feat. Kelly Rowland" by David Guetta and the "Sound of San Francisco" by Global Deejays. Sure, you're going to feel like you're in a gay dance club. Go with it, it though. Pop in them earbuds and take the gay jams for a run.

"You Haven't Updated Your Blob Lately"

I know, dad...and it's a "blog," not a "blob."

I apologize to all for being so out of the blogging loop. Two weeks into work, I am happily wearing more hats than I started with. I'm the third grade co-teacher, the Spanish Enrichment teacher, the new fourth grade math teacher, and the assistant in the nursery school's Science Enrichment program. I'm busy working, working out, socializing, and just living my life and honing in on what's really important and what truly makes me happy. Here are some hot spots that put the happy in my happiness:

El Compadre 7408 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles 90046

An abundance of chips and salsa, flaming margaritas (literally served en fuego), and a delicious variety of Mexican food. The environment is lively and the restaurant is jammed, so be sure to make a reservation before you go. A great place to go with friends for a good meal and good times. Street parking only, so check out those street signs; them parking guys are vicious.

Vito's Pizza 846 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles 90069

Absolutely the best pizza in L.A. The pizza only comes in one size (large) with a thin crust and huge slices. The baked zitti is out of this world. 27 years of living in this city (well, 22 1/2, if you count college and studying abroad), and I finally find a pizza joint that's worth each and every calorie. The most surprising part? It's cheap! For a massivo pizza and large order of pasta, a mini salad, including delivery and tip, the bill will run you about $30. Mind you, this amount of food could feed a group of four...my brother and I ate it all ourselves. Stomach cramps, ahoy! Oh, and don't forget the Toppings.

Versailles Cuban Restaurants L.A. and the Valley

This place is an L.A. secret. With the motto "Cuban food at its best!" Versailles never disappoints. It's a favorite in my family, and we enjoy the chicken, pork, and fish. Try not to fill up on the garlic bread when you get there, 'cause you'll be upset you didn't have enough room for the main dishes. The ambiance is casual and laid back and reservations are accepted. This is one of those places you never think to go to right off the bat, even though it always hits the spot. Beware of the garlic -- it's potent! So try not to burp or breathe in a public venue. People will notice.

Joan's on Third 8350 1/2 West Third St., Los Angeles 90048

Hands down, the best mac n' cheese I've ever had. Ever. Go during the day to see and be seen; go at night to avoid the crowd.

Jersey Mike's Subs 7100 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood 90046

Well, kids, my uncle did it again. With his first franchise booming in Northridge, he has opened a second location in the Target shopping center (Santa Monica and La Brea) that's already generating a buzz. Lines out the door in both locations, Jersey Mike's is surpassing Subway and Quiznos on the sandwich homefront. My all-time favorite is still the #7, add salami, Mike's way, no tomatoes. Don't forget to add a cookie and/or a brownie to your sandwich, chips, and soda. Nip that post-lunch sweet craving in the bud!

Fryman Canyon Intersection of Fryman and Laurel Canyon, Studio City

A 3-mile hike that's great to do solo or with some friends. Last Friday I hiked it on my own, stopping at a bench mid-way to do 90 tricep dips (which way to the gun show?). I walked uphill and ran downhill, not once regretting that I braved the workout in the blazing heat. The views are beautiful and the trail is empty during the week. I look forward to crossing paths with you there soon.

Even though I mostly blog about food and working out, I'd like to add notable mentions to two L.A. standouts:

Prix Body Adornment 8776 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood

Don't tell anyone but, last Thursday, my piercing count jumped from seven to eight, thanks to my girl E and Roger, the best piercer I've even been to. I read reviews about Roger on Yelp and, coincidentally, he ended up being our piercer. Although the piercing prices are steep (the price includes jewelry), the service is well worth it. Roger clearly explained the entire piercing procedure, alleviating any questions, concerns or fears we may have had. This was also the least painful of any of my piercings, proving that good piercers know how to make the process comfortable (well, as comfortable as it can be) and worth it. I highly recommend Roger for any future piercings you may crave. He's fantastic.

Tina Nails 8371 West Third Street, Los Angeles 90048

My new favorite place to get my nails did. Efficient, clean, cheap, and friendly, each woman who works here does a great job. If you dig acrylics, Tina does the best in L.A.; they're thin, natural-looking, and beautiful. Tina always remembers customers by name and makes you feel welcome as she says, "Pick a cullah." One of my favorite parts about the pedicures is the hot towel they throw on your legs after the massage. Mmm. Walk-ins welcome and appointments accepted no more than a day in advance.

L'shana tovah!

"I Do Yoga and Pilates and the Room is Full of Hotties"

Well, well, well, the Hip Chick blogs again. Didn't think it would come so soon, huh?

In my last entry, I don't think I did my trainer, Tracie Hendricks, enough justice with one shout out....apparently, neither did she. Before her nod of disapproval of my sharing that I had brown rice with dinner, she pulled me aside and told me that she didn't like how food stole her Lean Mean Fighting Machine spotlight. I explained to her that the Hip Chick blogs about food; although, now that I have her in my life, she thought I should put more emphasis on physical activities - not just food - in LA...

...and, since I love her and she is transforming my body into steel, I agreed.

As I've mentioned time and time again, I workout a lot. For those of you that go to the gym, run, hike, do yoga, yadda yadda yadda, you know there comes a point in the workout where you just have to stop; it becomes too hard. Let me tell you a little something about Tracie. The first time I trained with her, I almost puked. After 150 side/leg lifts at the end of our hour-long workout, I had to run upstairs and stick my head in the toilet. No, I didn't hurl, although I came pretty damn close. Tracie pushes me to the point of no return. In addition to reminding me to relax my face, stick in my tongue, and contract my abs, she constantly tells me that training my body is so beneficial, and she works with my strengths and challenges me in ways I never thought possible. She is very realistic, keeping the mindset that she trains her clients so she can one day set them free, applying the knowledge she has given them after the trainer/client relationship comes to an end.

Even though some may look at me and think I'm crazy for hiring a personal trainer, this is something that I am doing for my own well-being, happiness and health. Tracie teaches me to honor, worship, and listen to my body, strengthening and maintaining its health for years and years to come. She lets me take breaks but never lets me quit.

And the relationship doesn't stop when our time together is up. Tracie is always texting me, asking how I feel after a workout. She also makes me feel a bit crappy over text, telling me that if I don't feel sore after a workout then I'm just cheating myself. Tough love? I think so. And it sure as shit works. If I'm out at a restaurant and can't decide what to eat, I can shoot her a text and ask for her advice. Despite her favoritism of healthy, protein-packed meals, Tracie doesn't believe in depriving oneself of deliciously unhealthy treats; she'll just push you that much harder the next time you meet. Another benefit to working with Tracie? You get to experience her classes at Equinox where, I believe, all the beautiful people go. This morning I saw Janice Dickinson, her barely legal boyfriend, and Jackie from "Work Out."

The best thing about Tracie? She always puts a smile on my face. Whether she's yelling, "Oh Challah!" (yes, that spelling is correct) to the passing cars or laughing at me for wearing pigtails and running like a five-year old girl, she reminds me that this personal training is something that will only help me in the long run. She has also blessed me with the mantra, "Hair down, boobs up," reinforcing the fact that looking good at the gym and putting a little mascara on the eyes never hurt anyone. Personal training and improved self confidence go hand-in-hand.

Next week we're upping the ante with hikes at Fryman and...eek...running. Will I survive the intensity and be able to blog again? Only time will tell.

Again, if you want to link up with Tracie, feel free to contact me directly.

I'm in LA, Trick!

The Banana Pudding at Toast: Well worth the $6.95 and bazillion calories

One of my favorite things about living in the city is the plethora of opportunities at my fingertips. It's pretty rare if I have to get in a car to experience great food, a good workout, or a new wardrobe (hey, I can't help it if Old Navy's workout clothes are on sale). I walk everywhere and discover new and exciting things every day. Here are some of my newest LA finds:

A.O.C. 8022 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

To quote a dear friend, "A.O.C. - A.O.Amazing!" This was my second time trying A.O.C. and it had been about three or four years since the first time I tried it. I indulged here with three of my closest friends, and we - so "Sex and the City" like - chatted over wine and small plates filled with cheese, salads, vegetables, fish, and, of course, dessert. The roasted dates with parmesan and bacon were out of this world, as were the beet salad and farro and black rice with pinenuts and currants. This is a great place to go with a small group of friends or on a date, and they even have a private terrace upstairs which would be great for parties. This place is pricey, but well worth every penny. And the wine list has something to satiate everyone's palate.

Boss Sushi 268 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Sushi is my favorite food, by far, and Boss did no less than impress. Try the Princess Camille, Beverly Hills 90211 and Rainbow Dragon rolls. The portions are huge. The seaweed salad and green tea are great too. Parking in back or try a meter in front (free after 6p). They accept reservations, but they're not always necessary. Yet another great sushi joint in LA. You got it, Boss!

Toast Bakery Cafe 8221 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

If you try eating here anytime before 2p.m. any day of the week, don't expect to immediately snag a table. This place is PACKED! Whether it's the food, the location, or the celeb spottings (isn't that Scarlett Johansson??), there's something special that puts Toast on the edible map. I've been here a few times and always seem to order the Garden Salad: mixed greens, sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, pinenuts, strips of grilled garden burger, and house vinagrette dressing. I recommend the half portion, since the regular size is massive. Now don't get me started on the dessert. They have this birthday cake thing, which is vanilla cake with buttercream frosting, and I would make it walk down the aisle with me if it could. I was also introduced to the banana pudding (see pic above) the other day by my love, Liza. This pudding is to die for!! Liza and I split it and chomping through the layers was like unwrapping each of the eight Chanukah presents: the very top is Oreo cookies; the second layer is banana pudding; the third layer is Oreo crumbs; the fourth later is banana chunks; and the fifth later is all that shit mixed together. OMFG! Amazing! I had a ginormous tummy ache later that night, although the pain was well worth it. Is that a banana in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?

Toppings Yogurt 349 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Ma Nishma? Toppings is both a fantastic yogurt spot and a Kosher eater's delight. So many Chosen People -- I love it!! It's always nice to connect with your peeps while satisfying your belly. This place is, apparently, along the lines of Menchie's, where you serve yourself and pay by the ounce. Great yogurt selections and even better toppings. You might find it beneficial to put the toppings on the bottom and the top. Try the coconut yogurt bottomed and topped (that's what he said) with rainbow sprinkles, heath bar, cheesecake bites and chocolate chip cookie dough balls. Yeah, that's right, I put all that on my yogurt. I also really enjoy the peanut butter yogurt, my cousin's fiancee likes the mint, and my cousin and brother like the chocolate. A lot of something for everyone at a totally reasonable price. How can you complain? You fill it up yourself!

Now, I know you're probably thinking, "My lord, woman, STOP EATING!!" Well, my friends, if you are dedicated readers and have been following me from the start, you will know that I eat hard and exercise hard. Although I don't deprive myself of delicious eats, most days are spent eating vegetables, fruit, tofu, and brown rice. I also workout five-to-six days a week and have added a personal trainer to the mix. A BIG shout out to my trainer, Tracie Hendricks, who kicks my ass into shape and never lets me quit. For more information on how you can link up with Tracie, feel free to contact me directly.

If you ever wonder how I crank out all this witty jargon, I do it by sitting with my laptop in my living room or at some type of a coffee shop, pop in my earbuds, and listen to Pandora or ITunes. Try this one on for size: Dance is Dead (Tocadisco Remix) by Boosta. Enjoy!

Movin' On Up!

Lunch at FOOD+LAB in West Hollywood

Well, my friends, it has been quite some time since I've blogged. Despite my brief hiatus, I am back, and ready to take on the blogging world. Allow me to fill you in on some of my recent happenings.

The main reason for my lack of blogging is the fact that I moved. Yes, kids, I'm out of the valley and back out on my own in the City of Angels. Words can't express the amount of gratitude I feel towards my aunt and uncle for taking me into their home for the past two significant years. They gave me such huge amounts of love and support through so many life changes, that I grow teary-eyed when I think of how much I'll miss their daily presence. In the past two years, I survived grad school (What did you say? A 3.9 GPA? Yeah, that's right.), received my teaching credential in Elementary Education, landed a job for the fall at a wonderful school in the valley, ended a relationship that was masking my inner happiness, got two tattoos, went to Israel, and encountered the deaths of four of my beloved family members, one of which was my maternal grandmother and my last living grandparent. Needless to say, these past two years have been life-changing, and I would not have been able to hold my head up through most of these events, had it not been for my aunt and uncle. But, as we all know, life goes on, and it's time for me to grab the reins of life by myself once again.

Okay, okay, I know what you're really here for, my take on LA life. So, slow your roll, and allow me to share...

FOOD+LAB 7253 Santa Monica Blvd., Trannyville, CA 90046

This place is totally hidden amongst the Russian markets and nudie bars in West Hollywood. It was introduced to me by one of my best friends, Steph, who read about it on Daily Candy, and we decided to try it one Saturday afternoon. We shared the prosciutto with ricotta, fig, and balsamic honey reduction sandwich, cucumber salad, potato salad with prosciutto (Kosher, much?), and a couscous-like salad with dried fruit. Everything was delicious. The one drawback I have is that the service was slow, but we were very happy once the food came. Few tables, parking in rear or meters on Santa Monica Blvd. Definitely a place to check out, and the food is reminiscent of Joan's on Third, another fave and my new local hotspot.

Joan's on Third 8350 West Third St., Los Angeles 90048

What can I say about Joan's on Third? It's simply delicious. From the apricot glazed ham and brie sandwich, to the baby field greens salad, to the everything cookie and the Snickers cupcake, you really can't go wrong. Apparently, the egg salad sandwich and macaroni and cheese are amazing. A bit of a steep price for a simple lunch, but the food and ambiance are well worth it. Don't expect to snag a table as soon as you get there; this place is always crowded. Great for peeping LA locals and celebs (What up, Dr. Hahn?). Parking might be tough (meters on 3rd), but if you dine with Yours Truly, it's a 2-minute walk from my apartment. Look forward to bumping into you there.

Bollywood Dance, 24 Hour Fitness 8612 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood 90046

Talk about having fun while working out. This class is AWESOME! One of my best friends, Alice, is in town from NY, so she and I decided to try this class last night. Rahul is a fantastic instructor, with a British accent to top it all off. He combines intricate footwork, hand movements, and head nods to give you a heart-racing cardiovascular workout. With or without athletic kicks, you'll be jumping and dancing your way to a newer you. Great music, great energy, and great moves. Wednesday nights at 8p.m.

Tonight, I'm seeing what these free concerts at the Santa Monica Pier have to offer. Apparently, they're great. Tomorrow night, A.O.C. Cheers!

"I'm Not Josie Grossie Anymore!"

The Buffalo burger with truffle fries at Josie

I ate at Josie the other night for my uncle's birthday. Located on Pico and 25th, you would never know that a fine dining restaurant is located amidst the old buildings in Santa Monica. When you're inside the restaurant, you feel like you're in someone's living room; cool green walls and crown moulding, comfy couch-like booths with pillows, and few tables create an intimate feel. They offer a prix fixe menu, which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert, that is well worth the $45 if you like the chosen items. I was not a fan of what the prix fixe had to offer, so I opted for the buffalo burger with truffle fries. Oh...my...goodness. Delicious! My burger was lean, juicy, and HUGE (that's what she said), topped with gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and foie gras, and neither the burger nor fries needed ketchup. As an appetizer to the appetizers, we all got a complimentary slice of a gruyere cheese, mushroom and spinach quiche that was out of this world. Everything was delicious, from the goat cheese tart and bibb salad appetizers, to the buffalo burger and Brittany Salt-Crusted Jidori Chicken Breast, to the rich chocolate bread pudding and apricot tarte tatin for dessert. Don't expect to get out cheap. With appetizers, entrees, desserts, and wine, this place will set you back about $50 per person. Josie may not be a let's-go-grab-a-bite-to-eat type of a place, but I highly recommend it for a nice night out, if you can afford it.